A BARMAID with a taste for enterprise has bought the pub she has worked in for the last decade.

Claire Usswald, 36, served her first pint at the Borough Arms in Barry in 1996. She now has the keys to the pub.

For more than 50 years the Borough has been a fixture of the Vale of Glamorgan town's high street. Convinced it could flourish further, Ms Usswald, originally from Wrexham, secured funding to take out a 20-year lease.

She is reviving a family tradition. Her grandparents have run public houses across Wales for most of their lives.

"I'm delighted to be taking over the helm of such a well-loved, local landmark," she said. "I would like to thank everyone who has made this dream of mine come true, especially our NatWest business manager, Gareth Morgan.

"Changes will be made to the premises over the next few months, as I'm obviously keen to put my own stamp on the premises.

"This will include making more use of the cellar bar as a venue for live entertainment."

Encouragement came from the previous landlord, who had left the pub in her hands during periods of leave in the past.

Business manager Mr Morgan, who helped her put together a plan for the business, said, "I'm delighted [we have] been able to help make Claire's dream of securing her own business come true. She have put a lot of time and energy into researching this business and, as new business owner, has sensibly taken advantage of all the help and advice available to her.

"Taking over an existing business is an attractive option for those thinking of starting their own business, but you still need to be very dedicated."